An electronic handbrake, LED headlights, keyless entry and start, 180-degree split view rear camera and sizeable touchscreen infotainment system ... all packed into a panel van?
Well, yes, and delivery drivers in the new Ford Transit Custom aren’t questioning the comfort either.
Before Ford’s launch of its seventh-generation Pony car, Time to Torque popped into Eastern Cape Motors in North End to pick up the trusty steed for the trip to George.
From the onset, the commanding seating position over the multifunction steering wheel allows for a full range of vision and comfortable posture for the inevitable hours behind the wheel should you be in the market for a delivery vehicle.
The sizeable cabin is not fancy, but it is functional with large holders in the door panels, several cupholders, 13-inch Touchscreen Display with SYNC® 4 and a 12-inch digital instrument cluster.
The drive along the N2 proved to be comfortable, consistent and economical, hovering at about 7l/100km.
Its two-litre single turbo four-cylinder diesel engine mated to a six-speed manual transmission was more than sufficient, with 100kW and 360Nm of torque keeping the vehicle cruising along without frantic gearchanges searching for power while overtaking.
The vehicle also has three driving modes — Normal, Eco and Slippery.
The Transit Custom Base model naturally offers a generous cargo capacity of 5.8 cubic metres, a three-Euro pallet capacity, and two entrances — a side sliding door and twin rear barn doors which open 180 degrees.
In addition, the new Transit is teched out with various driver assists including Collision Mitigation System, Intelligent Speed Assistance, Driver Impairment Monitor, Lane Keeping Aid, Speed Sign Recognition Reverse and front Parking Aid as well as a rear-view digital camera.
Creature features include Automatic Rain-Sensing Windshield Wipers, Auxillary 12V Power Outlet, Wireless Charging, Power Windows, Quickclear Heated Windscreen and more.
The Transit Custom will set you back R756,500, but the size, comfort and practicality of the vehicle are sure to bring in the returns for a business and keep a smile on any kilometre-munching driver.
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